A recent study conducted on mice explored the effects of ketogenic diets on internal body organs. The keto diet, which involves consuming high amounts of fats and low amounts of carbohydrates, has gained popularity for its quick weight loss results. The researchers found that mice on a ketogenic diet experienced increased rates of cellular aging in their body organs. The study involved testing different types of high-fat diets on mice, with some groups consuming diets high in unsaturated fats and others consuming diets high in saturated fats. The mice on the ketogenic diets showed evidence of organ damage and cellular senescence, a process that can lead to inflammation and contribute to the development of tumors.
The results of the study raised concerns about the potential risks of long-term ketogenic diets on organ health. The researchers identified proteins AMPK and p53 as likely contributors to the cellular aging process and found that blocking these pathways resulted in reduced levels of cellular senescence. The study also showed that quitting the ketogenic diet could reverse some of the cellular aging markers, suggesting that managing this damage is possible either through medication or intermittent adherence to the diet. The findings underscore the importance of carefully considering the duration and composition of ketogenic diets, particularly for individuals with existing organ concerns or at risk for chronic diseases.
Scott Keatley, a registered dietitian, highlighted the need for longitudinal trials in humans to confirm whether ketogenic diets cause cellular senescence. While ketogenic diets have shown benefits in managing epilepsy and promoting weight loss, their long-term effects are not fully understood and may come with significant health risks. Keatley emphasized the importance of seeking medical guidance before considering a ketogenic diet and suggested that further research is needed to understand the impact of these diets on long-term health outcomes. Steve Gendron, a specialist in immunology and endocrinology, echoed the need for long-term studies on diverse populations to evaluate the effects of the keto diet on organ health and overall well-being.
Gendron emphasized the importance of observing individuals on ketogenic diets over extended periods to fully understand the impacts on organs and overall health. He suggested that including a variety of ketogenic diet types in future studies could provide a more comprehensive picture of their effects. While the study highlighted potential risks associated with ketogenic diets, it also pointed to the possibility of managing cellular senescence through targeted interventions or changes in diet. Further research is needed to explore the long-term implications of ketogenic diets on organ health and overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and adjusting dietary choices based on individual health considerations and guidance from healthcare professionals.
